Review : Sam Bahadur : Vicky Kaushal aces Sam Manekshaw’s biopic!

In recent times, biopic are being made in good numbers as many of them are backed by the viewers. The latest to join the list is #SamBahadur, a #biopic on India’s first Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw. The film covers the life and times of one of the most decorated and endearing army personality from his birth till he became the most popular army man in the country if not internationally. Sam Bahadur remains an inspirational figure for aspiring soldiers.

The film delves into the personal as well as army life of Sam Bahadur and recites a humorous story around why Sam Manekshaw was famous as Sam Bahadur.
Field Marshal Sam Bahadur’s life and career are a testament to the highest ideals of military leadership.

Sam Bahadur’s valour and dedication towards his country made his tenure in the army memorable. The movie takes viewers to the British era when India too had participated in World War 2. The eruption of war in 1947 during the partition time,  China betraying India’s trust by saying ‘Hindi Chini bhai bhai’ and then attacking our country in 1965, a war with Pakistan in 1971 where India helped in the formation of Bangla Desh are the incidents where Sam’s brilliant strategic mind came to the fore. This handsome guy was a charmer too and even late ex PM Indira Gandhi was fond of him and bestowed upon him India’s first Field Marshal title.

The director Meghana Gulzar (Raazi, Chhapak) has tried to put in as many incidents from Sam Manekshaw’s life as possible which make the film look like a docu-series. Despite many incidents, there are no high points where viewers will get tense. Though the production values are high the music is not noteworthy. Cinematography is excellent and the background score too is good. Vicky Kaushal aces the character and his transformation as Sam Manekshaw is excellent. He has brought forth the endearing  mannerisms and body language of the character beautifully. His mannerism reminds one of Dev Anand. Sanya Malhotra has given immersive performance as Sam’s wife Siloo Manekshaw. Fatima Sana Shaikh as Late Indira Gandhi isn’t convincing enough and the discredit should go to the director and the casting director. Others including Zeeshan Ayuub (Pakistani General Yahya Khan), Govind Namdev (Sardar Vallabbhai Patel), lend good support.

Vicjy Kaushal shines brightly as Sam Bahadur and the film definitely is a one time watch.